I am a previous photography enthusiast in a former life, however in the past few years I have been much more focused on other things, but hoping to get back in to it. My previous camera is an old nikkormat of my fathers. not actually sure of the model even. But I digress. I am now hoping to get into the digital realm (have only had some basic P&S previously which have been replaced by an iPhone).
I am very intrigued by the portability but flexibility/lens options of the 4/3 and/or the mirrorless APC cameras. Have been doing some reading and it seems like the GX1 may be the right compromise in terms of price and options. I like the idea of manual dials. Of course perhaps one eventually finds the touch screen controls totally intuitive and that is the way to go. After searching through reviews I think I have basically whittled down to either the GX1 or the NEX-5N.
In your opinion which do you think the best option? Are their other cameras that you think would be an even better bet, like the samsung NX200 or the DMC-GH2? Or something else entirely?
Thank you much for your help.

A lot depends on which system you prefer. Micro Four Thirds has more lenses at the moment and also three motorised zooms, which are great for video. But that big sensor on the NEX is also very tempting.

My GX1 review is well underway, but I already have lots of information and samples in my preview at:

I'm also interested in the GX1, been doing some research and the GX1 fulfills my requirements of good image quality, fast AF, interchangeable lenses in a compact camera. Pity it's not available with a twin lens kit. Just waiting for your review before I buy.

Hi Gordon, in the review of this camera you said: "depending on the shooting mode, you may not see a live image between continuous frames. Instead the image you see between frames may simply be the last shot you took." Does this issue affect all M4/3 Live-view type cameras? I am interested in getting an ILC type camera, but from time to time I do motorsport photography (strictly amateur) and do a lot of panning - I am wondering whether an ILC is such a good idea, or whether the issue just affects this model.Thanks

Hi weta, the ILCs are getting better, but are still frustrating for panning action. Most will offer a true live image between frames, but only if you really slow the shooting rate. But then the ones which shoot really fast, such as the 10fps Sonys, actually become reasonably usable as even viewing replayed images at this rate gives you a good idea of the subject's position. It's only really problematic at the 5 or 6fps speed...